Hills Creek – Lookout Point 115kV Rebuild

Michels Pacific Energy, Inc. rebuilt 26 miles of existing 115kV transmission line connecting two dams/hydroelectric power plants to the city of Oakridge, OR. The project involved several structure locations in steep terrain, accessible only by hiking trail or helicopter. Crews have overcome every challenge this project has presented, including tough access conditions, material and equipment constraints, and wildfire-related shutdowns and delays.

During the 2023 construction season, Michels escalated the project schedule to prevent the City of Oakridge from losing power. Crews worked 12-hour shifts, seven days a week to complete the required work before water levels in the reservoir supplying the city with power reached critically low levels.